If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to Lake Wānaka, New Zealand, you’ve arrived at the right place. By the time you’ve finished reading this Lake Wanaka travel guide, you are going to be so clear on the best things to do in this gorgeous mountain town, and you’ll have a little bucket list ready to make your time in Lake Wanaka unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning on passing through for a long weekend, moving here or stopping by as part of a wider New Zealand itinerary – I’ve got you covered.
Set in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island, Lake Wānaka draws tourists from around the world because of its mind-blowingly beautiful mountain backdrops, glassy lake reflections, laid-back, outdoors-first lifestyle, and, just as importantly, its status as a gateway to SO many epic adventures.
Lake Wanaka is often compared to the nearby town of Queenstown, but I’d say Wānaka is calmer, more local, and just a little more grounded. Queenstown feels more like a city these days, whereas Wanaka, at the moment at least, still has that small lakeside-town feel… and you can still get a parking spot. Bonus.
Lake Wānaka is absolute heaven for anyone who loves hiking, wild swimming, taking photos, skiing, mountain biking and for anyone craving those mountain-town vibes with coffee shops galore to read your book in and watch the world go by. You’re going to love it, I just know it.
Let’s dive into this Lake Wanaka travel guide, shall we?
Where is Lake Wānaka?
Lake Wānaka sits in Central Otago on New Zealand’s South Island, just 1 hour from Queenstown, 3.5 hours from Christchurch (where most will fly into), and 1 hour from Mount Aspiring National Park.
Lake Wanaka is a key stop on most South Island road trips and itineraries – especially if you’re looping Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Fiordland and the West Coast.
A Little Slice of Wanaka History
Long before it became the adventure hotspot it is today, the Wānaka area was an important seasonal settlement for the Māori people, particularly Ngāi Tahu (the principal Māori tribe of the South Island). The lake itself was a food-gathering site and a key route for trading pounamu (greenstone)!
European settlers then arrived during the Otago gold rush in the mid-1800s, and farming soon became the backbone of the region.
Fun Lake Wanaka facts:
– The name “Wānaka” comes from the Māori word Oanaka, meaning “place of Anaka,” a local chief.
– At 300 metres deep, Lake Wānaka is one of New Zealand’s deepest lakes.
When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Wānaka?
There’s no bad time really, each season just delivers different energy and different best things to do in Wanaka for that time.
- Summer (Dec–Feb) – Best for hiking, swimming, biking and long daylight hours. This is also the busiest season.
- Autumn (Mar–May) – You’ll get those golden leaves, crispy mornings, and fewer crowds (more availability last-minute for accommodation).
- Winter (Jun–Aug) – Snow-covered peaks, it’s ski season + cosy alpine vibes.
- Spring (Sep–Nov) – Shoulder season pricing, fresh greenery, quieter trails.
Where to Stay in Lake Wānaka
You’ve got it all here: lakeside luxury lodges, Airbnbs, boutique apartments, backpacker hostels and holiday parks. Parking and traffic in town isn’t too bad, so even if you’re not right in the centre, you can always drive in. Of course, though, if you’re passing for 2-3 days and want to soak up as much of the Wanaka magic as possible, get a spot in town walking distance from the lake! For the peak season, make sure you book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Camping tip
For those of you passing through Lake Wanaka on a road trip and don’t fancy the holiday park set up, head to Albert Town Campground. It’s a freedom spot 5 minutes outside of town – right on the river. See images below. It’s first-come, first-served, and you pay $15 per adult via EFTPOS on arrival. Plenty of space!
Get access to ALL my New Zealand road trip tips, park ups, brunch spots, coffee spots and hike recommendations in my New Zealand Google Map:
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in New Zealand. You simply open the Google Map on your device and ALL my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
Soak up the adventure town vibes
One of the best things to do in Wanaka, in my opinion, is just wander through the town.
Wānaka has that effortlessly cool, outdoors-first vibe – the kind of place everyone is rocking their favourite North Face and Patagonia coats and ready for adventure. Mornings mean runners along the lakefront, paddleboarders heading out onto the glassy water, and cafés buzzing with hikers and bikers fuelling up before heading into Mount Aspiring National Park. Afternoons are for lake swims, grabbing an ice cream or beer on the lake front, browsing local outdoor stores, or sitting on the grass watching paragliders drift down from the hills.
There’s nothing to book and nothing to conquer in Lake Wanaka (apart from Roy’s Peak if you fancy it). One of the most magical things about this place is soaking up the rhythm of a town built around adventure.
Choose an epic hike
If you’ve seen Lake Wānaka online, chances are you’ve seen the iconic view from Roys Peak. Whilst this view is one of the most epic views around, it’s a pretty demanding hike.
Roys Peak is an epic 16km return hike that climbs 1,200 metres straight up from the roadside. It’s relentless, exposed and a serious leg-burner so definitely not for the faint hearted. But when you reach that famous viewpoint overlooking the sweeping curve of the lake with Mount Aspiring / Tititea rising in the distance, it makes every second worth it.
Not quite ready for that kinda climb? You’ve got options.
Isthmus Peak is often called Roys Peak’s quieter sibling. It’s similar in challenge (16km return, big elevation gain) but with arguably even more dramatic 360° views as you ascend too. You’ll see both Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea stretching out on either side of the ridgeline. Fewer crowds, but equally huge and epic rewards at the top.
For something shorter and more accessible, head up Wānaka Hill. This is a 1.5–2-hour return walk that starts right in town and offers elevation for panoramic lake and mountain views without the all-day commitment. It’s perfect for sunset if Roys and Isthmus feel like too much (totally get it).
Grab a coffee and walk around the lake
Grab a coffee to-go one morning when you are in Wanaka. You have one of the most beautiful lake walks on your doorstep (it’s flat too). The perfect way to start your day IMO.
There are plenty of good coffee spots in town. Have a morning wander, use your senses to support a local cafe, and pick up your morning fix.
Our favourite spot was The Coffee Shack!
See That Wānaka Tree
I mean, I’ve included this because it’s definitely one of the most popular things to do. It’s so busy with everyone getting selfies.
What’s hilarious is that just a few minutes’ walk past this famous tree, there’s another one very similar. Both are willow trees growing out of the lake. And yet, ‘That Wānaka Tree’ has become one of the most photographed trees in the world.
I don’t deny that with the snow-dusted peaks behind it, the still and reflective water beneath it and the morning light falling upon it – it is magical… I just wouldn’t stress about it if you don’t get around to seeing it!
It’s only a 5-minute walk from town, though, no booking needed. Go early with your coffee to avoid the crowds or for a stroll in the afternoon with an ice cream and tick it off the bucket list!
Eat your way around the town
One thing that Wanaka has become over the last 10 years, since I visited in 2016, is a foodie destination. It always had some good spots, but now it’s filled with epic dining options. Here are a few recommendations for you:
- Morning coffee @ The Coffee Shack Wanaka
- Merino lamb ragu pappardelle and polenta fries @ Francesca Restaurant
- slow-cooked meats and super-fresh salads @ Big Fig Wanaka
- Ice cream @ Patagonia Chocolates
- Slow-cooked meats @ Kai Kikokiko
- Burritos @ Burrito Craft
- Pastries @ Crumb Bakehouse
Explore Mount Aspiring National Park
Just an hour’s drive away lies Mount Aspiring National Park and if you love raw alpine wilderness, this is your place.
Named after Mount Aspiring (Tititea), one of the country’s highest peaks, the park is filled with glacial valleys, waterfalls, braided rivers and rugged hiking trails. Consider exploring: Rob Roy Glacier Track (3–4 hours return), the Blue Pools Walk (short and v photogenic) or the Aspiring Hut multi-day hike!
There’s something for everyone and every ability. No entry fee, but be sure to always check the weather and DOC updates before heading out.
Have a glass of wine with a view of Rippon Vineyard
For something a little slower (and equally scenic), head to Rippon Vineyard for a glass of wine with one of the best views in Central Otago.
Perched above Lake Wānaka with Mount Aspiring rising in the distance, this family-owned, biodynamic vineyard is just as much about the setting as it is the wine. Two birds, one stone.
Order a tasting flight, step out onto the lawn, and soak up rows of vines rolling down toward that unreal blue lake. It’s relaxed, unpretentious, and effortlessly beautiful, the perfect post-hike reward or girls weekend activity.
Take a Scenic Flight Over the Southern Alps
If your budget allows one wow moment, make it a scenic flight here.
Flying over the Southern Alps, rivers, and remote glaciers puts the scale of this landscape into perspective in a way hiking and driving simply cannot.
Look for operators offering glacier landings or fixed-wing scenic tours departing from Wānaka Airport. Booking in advance is highly recommended in peak season and if you’re set on doing something like this, account for staying an extra few days in town so that you can secure a good weather window!
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in New Zealand. You simply open the Google Map on your device and ALL my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
Get a post-hike beer at b.social – Wanaka Taproom & Eatery
After a big day soaking up the fresh mountain air, head to b.social – Wānaka Taproom & Eatery for a laid-back, post-hike pint, some food and a gentle social buzz.
With rotating craft taps, kombuchas and non-alcoholic beers too (i tried the Earl Grey Kombucha and LOVED it), b.social is the perfect spot to exchange trail stories over burgers and local brews.
There’s indoor and outdoor seating here and a very cool local vibe.
Get out on the Lake!
Lake Wānaka (at least in the summer) is made for being out on the water. There are many places in town where you can hire a kayak, book a paddleboard session, or join a lake cruise to explore hidden coves and island views. If the suns out and you’re feeling adventurous – go and see Wanaka from the lake perspective. Be warned, though, lol, the water IS cold. Even in the middle of summer (January).
Top tip: Mornings are best for calm water and those glassy reflections.
Grab an ice cream and relax by the lake
Oh my. Dark chocolate and macadamia gelato after a day of hiking. Phenomenal scenes.
Patagonia Chocolates is located right on the waterfront, and I have to say, I was sceptical that it would be an overhyped tourist trap, but the ice cream was amazing. Highly recommend. They also have other sweet treats and indulgences so grab something you like the look of and wander down to the lake front to enjoy it!
Go Biking in Lake Wanaka
Lake Wānaka isn’t just for hikers; it’s a playground for mountain bikers and casual cyclists alike. Trails range from easy lakeside rides (the same path that you can walk) to full-on alpine singletracks.
- Beginners or anyone after a scenic, gentle ride can enjoy the Lake Wānaka Outlet Track or town/lakeside loops, soaking up the lake and mountain views without breaking a sweat.
- Intermediate riders can tackle forest and hill trails like the Sticky Forest network, where flowing singletracks and light technical sections make every turn an adventure.
- Advanced riders can push it further with Roy’s Peak, Isthmus Peak, or Wānaka Hill ridgeline rides, rewarding effort with panoramic views of both lakes and the Southern Alps.
There are bike hire shops in town that cater to all levels, from cruisers to full-suspension mountain bikes. Pick your chosen route, head down and they will kit you out!
Go to The Food Truck Park for lunch or dinner
Omg I actually loved this place so much. After a day of adventure, when you’re ready for lunch or a big feed – come and check out the The Food Truck Park, a fresh new addition to Wānaka’s lakefront scene.
This outdoor hub features a lineup of food trucks serving everything from gourmet burgers, burritos and bagels to smoothies and fresh tacos. A stream runs right through the middle with plenty of seating around it, adding a refreshing, natural touch as you soak up the backdrop views of the lake and mountains. It’s casual, it’s aesthetic, it’s got all the yummy food, and there was a lovely, vibrant social buzz there!
See images below!!
Ski or Snowboard (Winter)
From June to September, Wānaka becomes a winter playground.
Cardrona Alpine Resort is the ideal spot for families and intermediate skiers, with wide groomed runs and terrain parks, while Treble Cone is perfect for advanced riders seeking steep, challenging slopes and off-piste terrain.
Early winter (June–July) delivers the fresh snow and quieter runs, while August–September offers longer days, sunny skies, and stunning alpine views. Even if you’re not skiing, the resorts have cosy cafés and scenic chairlift rides.
Combine a trip here with the Remarkables in Queenstown for a truly unforgettable winter adventure!!
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in New Zealand. You simply open the Google Map on your device and ALL my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
That’s everything!
Stunning, isn’t it?
Have you been to Lake Wanaka, New Zealand?
What are the best things to do in Lake Wanaka, New Zealand? Anything you’d add to this Lake Wanaka, New Zealand bucket list?
Love as always and happy adventuring…
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in New Zealand. You simply open the Google Map on your device and ALL my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in New Zealand. You simply open the Google Map on your device and ALL my recommendations are at the touch of your fingertips.
